ALABARÉ Learning Disability Service Honoured as Finalists in National Awards

Salisbury-based charity ALABARÉ is delighted to have been recognised at the National Learning Disability and Autism Awards 2026, in the Supported Housing category.

The organisation has been named as one of five finalists, with colleagues attending a ceremony in Birmingham, hosted by celebrity guest and long-standing supporter of the awards, Peter Andre.

The National Learning Disabilities and Autism Awards celebrate excellence in the support offered and honour organisations that excel in providing care, through sharing good practice and innovative approaches.

How does ALABARÉ support people with learning disabilities?

ALABARÉ provides 37 bed spaces for people with varying levels of learning disabilities across ten properties in Salisbury and Amesbury.

The charity takes a person-centred approach to clients’ care, ensuring every individual is given the support they need to live fulfilling lives as independently as possible.

Support workers work closely with residents to provide ‘real-world’ experiences, such as financial planning, looking after their home, and employability skills, while they feel safe, secure and confident in their long-term home.  

Activities are also planned to bring the homes together, have shared leisure time and promote social interaction, including gala balls, football tournaments, quiz nights, and the annual ALABARÉ’s Got Talent show.

Georgina Hackett, Head of Learning Disabilities Services at ALABARÉ, said, “I’m so pleased that we were named as finalists at the awards, as it’s a real testament to the hard work and dedication our colleagues put into supporting clients every single day, and often for many years.

"It was also a privilege to have been at the ceremony itself, celebrating the incredible efforts of charities and organisations across the country to enable people with learning disabilities to be seen, valued, and have choices about their care.

“Our Learning Disabilities services embody ALABARÉ’s mission to provide homes, restore hearts and empower minds, and I’m proud of our team for their ongoing commitment.”

The finalist place at the National Learning Disability and Autism Awards follows recognition from the Care Quality Commission last year, with inspectors rating ALABARÉ’s services as ‘good’ across all criteria.

A survey of residents has also found that 100% are happy with the services provided and 97% feel fully involved in their care plan. 

The ceremony also coincided with Learning Disability Week (15 – 21 June 2026), which aims to improve inclusion and highlight the potential of people with learning disabilities.

ALABARÉ Senior Service Manager, Leean Donohue, said, “Within our teams we see every day how important it is that those people that we support are not defined by their disabilities, but recognised for their strengths, preferences and achievements.

“We are continually inspired by the resilience and individual personalities of the people that we support and are constantly looking for opportunities to break down barriers, promote independence and take positive risks.”